What Is UM Coverage In Kentucky?

Uninsured motorist coverage in Kentucky can be incredibly beneficial, but where does this fit into the overall insurance picture for our drivers?

Drivers in Kentucky have choices when it comes to the type of insurance they have. This is what is known as a “choice no-fault” insurance state, which means drivers can use a no-fault insurance system or a traditional tort-based insurance system, but they have to choose when they purchase their insurance policy. However, uninsured motorist coverage is not required in Kentucky.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage is Beneficial, Even in a No-Fault State

As mentioned, Kentucky is a choice no-fault state. Most drivers carry no-fault insurance, which means they will turn to their own insurance carrier if they are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver.

Drivers who have no-fault insurance must carry $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) coverage per incident. Unfortunately, even a relatively minor injury can result in $10,000 worth of medical bills quickly.

In the event of an accident with another driver, you initially claim medical expenses through your no-fault insurance up to the $10,000 limit of a personal injury protection policy. For severe injuries surpassing this limit, the norm is to claim against the at-fault driver’s liability insurance (individuals can’t file a claim against another driver even if they have no-fault insurance, but only in certain circumstances).

However, if the at-fault driver is uninsured, seeking compensation from them directly might be impractical, as most uninsured drivers lack significant assets. This situation can be incredibly frustrating due to the limited avenues for compensation.

When a driver has the added protection of uninsured motorist coverage in Kentucky, they will be able to secure more compensation for their injuries, increasing the likelihood that they make a full recovery.

How Can You Get Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Kentucky?

The good news is that you can almost certainly get uninsured motorist coverage very quickly in Kentucky. If you do not yet have an insurance policy for your vehicle, speak to your insurance company about ensuring you have uninsured motorist coverage when you select your policy coverage types. Generally, insurance carriers automatically offer uninsured motorist coverage, and you have to opt out of the coverage. You may have uninsured motorist coverage and not be aware of it.

If you already have insurance coverage but do not have uninsured motorist coverage, simply call your insurance provider or log in to your account online or on the mobile app. You can likely quickly add services and have them take effect immediately, and uninsured motorist coverage does not cost much more monthly.

Do You Need Underinsured Motorist Coverage, Too?

Individuals who carry uninsured motorist coverage often also have underinsured motorist coverage. This type of insurance works similarly to uninsured motorist coverage but kicks in only if the insurance policy limits of the at-fault party are inadequate to cover the total damages. We encourage drivers to carry both during short and uninsured motorist coverage to ensure they remain as protected as possible should an accident occur. Speak to a Lexington accident lawyer today to learn more.